Chicago Bears Sign Durham Smythe to One-Year Deal: A Key Addition for the 2025 Season

The Chicago Bears made a noteworthy addition to their roster, signing former Miami Dolphins tight end Durham Smythe to a one-year deal, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Thursday. The move reunites Smythe with Ben Johnson, his former wide receivers coach during his rookie year with the Dolphins. This partnership promises to benefit both Smythe and the Bears, especially as the team looks to strengthen its offensive depth.

A Versatile Player with Proven Skills

Durham Smythe, a fourth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft from Notre Dame, has spent his entire seven-year career with the Miami Dolphins. Throughout his tenure, Smythe proved himself as a reliable and versatile player, recording 132 catches for 1,228 yards and four touchdowns. Despite his solid career numbers, Smythe’s role with the Dolphins diminished in the 2024 season. He caught just nine passes for 53 yards, a stat that likely influenced Miami’s decision not to re-sign him.

However, Smythe’s skill set goes far beyond just catching passes. He is widely regarded as a strong run and screen blocker, which makes him an ideal fit for a Bears team that struggled with blocking in the previous season. The Bears’ offensive line was inconsistent in 2024, and adding a player like Smythe, who excels in these areas, will provide much-needed support in the run game. He will also be a key asset in protecting Caleb Williams, who enters his second year as the Bears’ quarterback.

Reuniting with Ben Johnson

One of the most intriguing aspects of Smythe’s move to Chicago is his reunion with Ben Johnson, who now serves as the Bears’ offensive coordinator. Johnson was Smythe’s wide receivers coach in Miami during his rookie season, and the two developed a strong working relationship. Johnson’s offensive scheme has the potential to utilize Smythe’s skills in both the blocking and receiving game, giving the Bears a multifaceted weapon at tight end. This familiarity could be the catalyst for Smythe’s success in Chicago, as he will be playing under a coach who knows how to maximize his strengths.

Impact on the Bears’ Offense

While Smythe may not be a prolific pass catcher, his contributions to the team could be vital in other areas. At 6’6″ and 246 pounds, Smythe is a physical presence who can be deployed as an additional blocker in the running game. His versatility also extends to the occasional fullback role, where he has had some success in the past. Over his career, Smythe has rushed four times for three first downs and a touchdown. This unique skill set makes him a valuable asset, especially in short-yardage situations or when the Bears need an extra blocker on the field.

Even with Cole Kmet as the Bears’ primary tight end, Smythe’s role will be significant. He is likely to serve as the backup tight end but will see plenty of action in various formations. His ability to contribute both in the run and pass game will give the Bears more flexibility on offense and make them harder to defend against.

A Boost for the Future

The signing of Durham Smythe is a solid move for the Bears as they continue to build around Caleb Williams and improve their offensive line. His blocking prowess, experience, and familiarity with Ben Johnson’s system give him a strong chance to thrive in Chicago. While his role might not be that of a star tight end, Smythe has the potential to be a crucial piece of the Bears’ offensive puzzle in 2025. If used correctly, he could prove to be one of the underrated signings of the offseason.